Kantian ethics

What type of ethical theory is Kantian ethics?

Deontological – it focuses on duty and rules rather than consequences.

Who developed Kantian ethics?

Immanuel Kant, an 18th-century German philosopher

What is the central principle of Kantian ethics?

Categorical Imperative

What is the difference between hypothetical and categorical imperatives?

Hypothetical imperatives depend on a condition (e.g., “If you want X, do Y”), while categorical imperatives apply universally, regardless of desire or outcome.

What is the first formulation of the Categorical Imperative?

Universalisability principle - act only on maxims you could will to become a universal law

What is the second formulation of the Categorical Imperative

People are ends in themselves - treat humanity, in yourself and others, always as an end and never merely as a means

What is the third formulation of the Categorical Imperatove?

Kingdom of Ends - act as though you are legislating universal laws for a community of rational beings

What role does duty play in Kantian ethics?

Moral actions are done out of duty, not inclination or self-interest

What is “good will” according to Kant?

The only thing good without qualification; acting from duty with the right intention

How does Kant view consequences in ethics?

They are morally irrelevant – what matters is acting from duty

What is a maxim that does not adhere to the principle of universalizability?

Lying to get out of trouble – if universalised, trust would break down and lying would be meaningless (Murderer at your door example)

How does Kant view freedom and morality?

True freedom is autonomy: choosing to follow moral law rationally, not being controlled by desires

What is a strength of Kantian ethics?

Clear rules, respects human dignity, avoids subjective consequences

What is a weakness of Kantian ethics?

Rigid – no exceptions; ignores consequences; conflicting duties can occur